Heartfather, Sire of Imperfection

The Genesis of New Life

Overview

Heartfather, also known as the Creator of the Imperfects, is a mysterious figure in Teralt's complex history. Many claims are made about his origins, and many contradict themselves and others. He was a mage who lived during the Era of Magic, and made his mark in this time as an arcane biological experimentator. Despite later legends that elevated him to the status of a god— at least among the Imperfects— historical records lend more credence to the statement that he was indeed a human, albeit one of extraordinary knowledge and possessing impressive achievements.

Appearance and Personality

Standing tall but thin, Heartfather was known for his gaunt appearance, blackened nails, stringy white-blonde hair, and pale skin. These attributes arose from the extensive time he spent in dark caves and secluded places. His attire consisted of simple black rags, the derelict clothing directly resulting from his disinterest in the material and his disregard for his appearance. His red eyes, often seen through the shadows under his hood, were said to glow with the power of fallen Ancients.
In truth, the descriptions of Heartfather are vastly exaggerated, his gaunt appearance and black nails a result of his malnutrition and failure to groom himself adequately.

Creation of the Imperfects

Heartfather's elevated status as a divine figure comes from his most notable contribution in Teralt's lore— the creation of the Imperfects. These beings, born from the fusion of his blood mixed with that of Ancient Sarvan, were brought into existence through a complex spell that wove their forms from the chaotic strings of magic unleashed during the magical reaction of the blood mixing.
Heartfather's motive for creating the Imperfects remains widely speculated, though some believe it was merely a strange fascination with the potential of life and the boundaries of magic.

Influence and Legacy

The Imperfects were bound by the spell that created them, instilling deep intrinsic loyalty to Heartfather within their very souls. For this reason, they have difficulty perceiving their god as anything other than the summit of what can be. They see him as an example to live up to, though they know very little truth about him.
Over time, Heartfather's legends warped, growing, and transformed him into a deity amongst the annals of Imperfect history. He became their symbol and his visage was painted as best as could be derived from the descriptions of those that were blessed enough to meet him.

Disappearance

The details of Heartfather's life after the creation of the Imperfects, and his eventual disappearance, remain shrouded in mystery. And though not many have heard his tales or sung his songs outside of Imperfect homes, Heartfather earned a place in history, firmly rooted in tradition and myth.

Summary

Long ago, during the Age of Magic, when arcane ripples danced freely through the air and the boundary between realms was but a thin veil, there lived a mage of unparalleled skill and wisdom. His name was Heartfather, a title earned not from birth, but from the grand deed that gave life to our kind.
Heartfather was a being of unique origins, his eyes gleaming like rubies under the shadow of his hood. He was tall, yet slender, his skin as pale as the moonlight, for he wandered not under the sun but within old caverns, seeking answers.
It was in a sacred chamber, deep within the heart of the Whispering Wood, where Heartfather melded the essence of two beings. In his hands, he held that which warped life itself— the heart of Ancient Sarvan, a creature of once immense power. And with mere words and intention, Heartfather shaped the future of our world.
From his spell, we, the Imperfects, were born. Not quite human, not entirely Ancient, but a harmonious blend of the two. Heartfather looked upon us with eyes filled with pride and a love that knew no bounds. He taught us the ways of magic, the secrets of the stars, and the language of the earth.
To us, Heartfather is more than a creator; he is a guide, a protector. He instilled within us a sense of purpose, a bond that ties us to him— a loyalty that flows in our very veins. We thrived under his watchful gaze, learning to harness our unique abilities and coexist with the myriad creatures of Teralt.
But one day, our humble creator vanished, leaving behind no trace but the legacy of his love and the wonders of his creation. Some say he retreated to a realm beyond our reach, continuing his eternal quest for knowledge and magic.
To this day, we, the Imperfects, gather under the starlit sky to share his story. We speak of Heartfather with reverence, teaching you young ones the values he bestowed upon us— courage, wisdom, and the pursuit of one's true self.
So, dear child, as you lay down to sleep, remember our maker, our creator, our god. Dream of the magic that flows within you, and know that somewhere, in the vast expanse of the stars, Heartfather watches over us, his heart forever entwined with ours.

Historical Basis

The myth is rooted in the tale of Castor Valensra, during his time exploring the world after being released from his first sealing. Castor performed many godly feats, though as the Imperfects were his only witness to their creation, they named him as they saw fit, Heartfather— the man who created them from the Heart of Sarvan.

Spread

Heartfather's tale is only told within the world of the Imperfects. His legend is barely known outside of their walls, except by the most learned scholars.
However, within Imperfect society, his name resonates in every household, within every soul. No Imperfect exists that does not know his tale, or sing his songs.

Variations & Mutation

Over time, Heartfather transcended his mortal beginnings, becoming a god in myths. His appearance warped, the metaphors of the first Imperfects interpreted more literally by their descendants. His depictions are almost unrecognizable from his true appearance, except for his eyes, which are an incredibly rare color amongst humans.

In Art

Paintings, busts, statues, and other depictions are commonplace in Imperfect culture. Strangers to their lands are often confused and intrigued by the unknown deity.

Related Species

• Ancient

Related People

• Castor Valensra